Microtrencher having a utility avoidance safety device and method of microtrenching

ABSTRACT

Provided is a microtrencher having a utility avoidance system that detects objects buried under the roadway, identifies whether the buried object is a utility and determines whether the buried utility is in the path of the cutting wheel. If the buried utility is in the path of the cutting wheel, an alert is sent to the operator, the vehicle is stopped, and/or the cutting wheel is raised in relation to the roadway. Also provided is a method of using the microtrencher to cut a microtrench in a roadway and to avoid cutting a buried utility in the path of the cutting wheel.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention generally relates to a microtrencher having a utilityavoidance safety device and a method of microtrenching using the utilityavoidance safety device.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Conventional devices for the trenching and laying cable or duct cannotbe used continuously. The micro trencher saw usually creates a pile ofspoil (dirt, asphalt, concrete, etc.) alongside the formed trench andthe trench must be cleaned before laying the cable in the trench. Thepile of spoil must then be removed. A fill, also referred to as cementor grout, is inserted into the trench on top of the cable orinnerduct/microduct. Large industrial vacuum trailers have been used toremove the piled up spoil. However, many hours are wasted by having todump the spoil from the trailers.

There is a great need for a device that can be used to continuouslyremove and in some instances recycle the spoil to in effort to increasethe speed for placing the cable and/or innerduct/microduct and to reducethe down time of roadways, and also to reduce production costs.

While the vacuum truck concept is known in the industry, there is nocurrent vacuum system that allows one to use a second vacuum or onevacuum to expel the cutting spoils into a cement/zim mixer or containerallowing for the material to be recycled.

Installing new optical fiber networks to a location is expensive andtime consuming. There is a great need for faster and less expensiveinstallation of optical fiber networks.

Microtrenching under city streets often unintentionally cuts utilities.The chances of unintentionally cutting buried utilities with the farfaster methods of microtrenching described herein is even greater. Thus,there is a need for a safer method microtrenching at higher speeds.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

An objective of the invention is to provide a safer microtrench and asafer method of microtrenching to avoid unintentionally cutting buriedutilities.

The above objectives and other objectives can be obtained by amicrotrencher having a utility avoidance device configured forcontinuously cutting a microtrench in a roadway comprising:

-   -   a motorized vehicle;    -   a cutting wheel connected to the vehicle and being configured to        continuously cut through a roadway and create a microtrench in        the roadway; and    -   a utility avoidance device connected to the vehicle comprising:        -   an under-roadway detection unit configured to detect buried            utilities under the roadway before the cutting wheel cuts            the microtrench in the roadway;        -   a computer system configured to receive detection data from            the under-roadway detection unit;        -   a user interface device coupled to the computer system;        -   a display coupled to the computer system, wherein the            computer system is configured to interpret the detection            data and identify utilities buried under the roadway,            determine whether the buried utility is within the path of            the cutting wheel, and if the buried utility is within the            path of the cutting wheel, at least one of sending an alert            to an operator of the microtrencher, stopping forward            movement of the vehicle; and/or raising the cutting wheel in            relation to the roadway.

The above objectives and other objectives can also be obtained a methodof cutting a microtrench in a roadway comprising

-   -   providing a microtrencher having a utility avoidance system:        comprising        -   a motorized vehicle;        -   a cutting wheel connected to the vehicle and being            configured to continuously cut through a roadway and create            a microtrench in the roadway; and        -   a utility avoidance device connected to the vehicle            comprising:            -   an under-roadway detection unit configured to detect                buried utilities under the roadway before the cutting                wheel cuts the microtrench in the roadway;            -   a computer system configured to receive detection data                from the under-roadway detection unit;            -   a user interface device coupled to the computer system;            -   a display coupled to the computer system, wherein the                computer system is configured to interpret the detection                data and identify utilities buried under the roadway,                determine whether the buried utility is within the path                of the cutting wheel, and if the buried utility is                within the path of the cutting wheel; at least one of                sending an alert to an operator of the microtrencher,                stopping forward movement of the vehicle, and/or raising                the cutting wheel in relation to the roadway;    -   cutting a microtrench in the roadway;    -   detecting a buried object under the roadway by the utility        avoidance system;    -   identifying the buried object as a buried utility;    -   determining that the buried utility is in the path of the        cutting wheel; and    -   at least one of sending an alert to the operator of the        microtrencher; stopping forward movement of vehicle by vehicle        control system in communication with the vehicle; and/or raising        the cutting wheel in relation to the roadway by a height        adjustment device in communication with the computer system.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates a side view of a multifunctional reel carrier, spoilmaterial handling container device.

FIG. 2 illustrates a side view of a multifunctional reel carrier, spoilmaterial handling container device.

FIG. 3 illustrates a view of the multifunctional reel carrier, spoilmaterial handling container device connected to a micro trencher and afill device.

FIG. 4 illustrates a view of the multifunctional reel carrier, spoilmaterial handling container device connected to a micro trencher and afill device.

FIG. 5 illustrates a view of another embodiment of the multifunctionalreel carrier, spoil material handling container device connected to amicro trencher and a fill device.

FIG. 6A illustrates a container device having an intake system.

FIG. 6B illustrates a container device having a sloping floor.

FIG. 6C illustrates a container device having a mechanical movingsystem.

FIG. 6D illustrates a container device having a moving inlet device.

FIG. 6E illustrates a container device having a dump body.

FIG. 7 illustrates a reel.

FIG. 8A illustrates an embodiment of the truck 124 showing how thecontainer device can be dumped.

FIG. 8B illustrates an embodiment of the truck 124 showing how thecontainer device can be dumped.

FIG. 8C illustrates an intake system for the container device.

FIG. 8D illustrates an embodiment of the truck 124 showing how thecontainer device can be dumped.

FIG. 8E illustrates an intake system for the container device

FIG. 9A illustrates an embodiment of spoil transport device.

FIG. 9B illustrates an embodiment of spoil transport device.

FIG. 10 illustrates a marker line.

FIG. 11A illustrates a sidewalk and curb having a temporary opticalfiber network and micro-trenches cut to move the temporary optical fibernetwork into a permanent position.

FIG. 11B illustrates a box having optical fiber that can be dispensed asneeded.

FIG. 11C illustrates a reel of optical fiber connected to a splitter.

FIG. 11D illustrates a reel of optical fiber connected to a splitter.

FIG. 11E illustrates a reel of optical fiber.

FIG. 11F illustrates a reel of optical fiber.

FIG. 11G illustrates a loose coil of optical fiber.

FIG. 12 illustrates a device identifier fill over a buried device.

FIG. 13 illustrates a device for applying the device identifier fill.

FIG. 14A illustrates an example of a microtrencher having a utilityavoidance device.

FIG. 14B illustrates an example of a microtrencher in which the utilityavoidance device has raised the height of the cutting wheel in relationto the roadway to avoid cutting a utility buried under the roadway.

FIG. 14C illustrates an example of a microtrencher having a utilityavoidance device connected to the internet.

FIG. 15 illustrates a flow chart of an example of the continuousmicrotrenching method.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

In the following description, for purposes of explanation and notlimitation, specific details are set forth, such as particular networks,communication systems, computers, terminals, devices, components,techniques, data and network protocols, software products and systems,operating systems, development interfaces, hardware, etc. in order toprovide a thorough understanding of the present invention with referenceto the attached non-limiting figures.

However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the presentinvention may be practiced in other embodiments that depart from thesespecific details. Detailed descriptions of well-known networks,communication systems, computers, terminals, devices, components,techniques, data and network protocols, software products and systems,operating systems, development interfaces, and hardware are omitted soas not to obscure the description.

As shown in FIGS. 1-4, the multifunctional reel carrier, spoil materialhandling container device 100 comprises a trader or truck bed 102 sothat the multifunctional reel carrier, spoil material handling containerdevice 100 can be moved along with a micro trencher 2. The size of thetrailer or bed 102 can be any desired size, for example from 5 to 40feet. The multifunctional reel carrier, spoil material handlingcontainer device 100 includes at least a first container 104 sized tohold spoil 12 created by the saw (such as a cutting wheel) 10 cutting amicrotrench 11, for example from 50 to 4,000 cubic feet in size. Thefirst container 104 is constructed to hold the spoil 12. A first vacuumdevice 110 has an inlet 111 disposed at the micro trencher 2 to suck upthe spoil 12, and optionally to also remove spoil 12 from themicrotrench 11. An outlet 112 of the first vacuum device 110 depositsthe spoil 12 into the first container 104. A second vacuum device 114has an inlet 115 connected to the first container 104 to remove spoilfrom the first container 104 and an outlet 116 connected to a filldevice 200. Thus, the multifunctional reel carrier, spoil materialhandling container device 100 is constructed to move spoil 12 from themicro trencher 2 to the first container 104 and then to the fill device200. Instead of the fill device 200, the second vacuum device 114 canmove the spoil to a truck or other vehicle 300 for removal of the spoilfrom the job site or to recycle the spoil back into the microtrench. Thefirst container 104 has at least one outlet 118 can have a filter toprevent spoil from being ejected into the air. The outlet 118 can allowair to enter or leave the first container 104. The device 100 includesat least one reel holder 120 constructed to hold a reel 121 of cable orinnerduct/microduct 140. The multifunctional reel carrier, spoilmaterial handling container device 100 preferably includes a pluralityof reel holders 120 that can be adjusted in height and moved manually ormechanically/hydraulically from front to back, back to front, side toside, or up and down. While all of the devices are shown connectedtogether in FIGS. 3-5, the devices can be separate from each other andstill operate continuously but unconnected. For example, the opticalfiber and or innerduct/microduct 140 can be continuously inserted intothe microtrench a time period after the microtrench 11 has been formedand the spoil 12 removed, also the fill device 200 can continuously filland seal the microtench 11 a time period after the optical fiber and/orinnerduct/microduct 140 has been laid in the microtrench 11.

To facilitate vacuuming of the spoil 12 from the container 104,different methods to move the spoil 12 within the container 104 can beutilized. Examples of suitable methods include, but are not limited to asloping floor 119 or mechanical moving systems 117 such as augers orconveyors or a tilting mechanism such as a lifting device 129.Alternatively, an inlet moving device 123 for moving an inlet 127 of thevacuum device within the container 104 can be utilized. In anotherembodiment the outlet 112 can be connected to the inlet 115 using aconnection such as a valve.

As shown in FIG. 7, the reel holders 120 can be adjustable in height andlocation either manually or mechanically 143, such as using a tread orlocking rail system, to accommodate different size reels. Multiple reelholders 120 can be utilized so that multiple cables and/orinnerducts/microducts 140 can be laid in the trench 11 simultaneously.The reel holders 120 can also have manual or mechanical/automaticwinding systems 145 allowing the cable, innerduct/microduct 140 to beeasily removed from the reels 121 and placed in the trench 11.

Any suitable micro trencher 2 can be utilized in the present invention.Non-limiting examples of suitable micro trenchers include those made andsold by Ditch Witch, Vermeer, and Marais. A micro trencher is a “smallrock wheel” specially designed for work in rural or urban areas. Themicro trencher 2 is fitted with a saw 10 that cuts a microtrench 11 withsmaller dimensions than can be achieved with conventional trench diggingequipment. Microtrench 11 widths usually range from about 6 mm to 130 mm(¼ to 5 inches) with a depth of 500 mm (20 inches) or less. Other widthsand depths can be used as desired. For example, up to 30 inches deep canbe used.

With a micro trencher 2, the structure of the road, sidewalk, driveway,or path is maintained and there is no associated damage to the road.Owing to the reduced trench size, the volume of waste material excavatedis also reduced, Micro trenchers 2 are used to minimize traffic orpedestrian disturbance during cable laying. A micro trencher 2 can workon sidewalks or in narrow streets of cities, and can cut harder groundthan a chain trencher, including cutting through for example but notlimited to solid stone, concrete, and asphalt. The term ground as usedherein includes, soil, asphalt, stone, concrete, grass, dirt, sand,brick, cobblestone, or any other material the trench 11 is cut into andthe optical fiber buried within.

FIG. 5 shows another exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Amicro trencher 2 is used to cut a micro trench 11. The multifunctionalreel carrier, spoil material handling container device 100 is separatedinto a container carrier device 240 comprising a truck 124 and reelcarrier device 242 comprising a trailer 125 so that the containercarrier device 240 and reel carrier device 242 can be moved along with amicro trencher 2. The trailer 125 can be a separate truck if desiredinstead of a trailer. The container carrier device 240 includes at leasta first container 104 sized to hold spoil 12 created by the saw 10cutting a microtrench 11. The first container 104 is constructed to holdthe spoil 12. A vacuum device 130 has an inlet 111 disposed at the microtrencher 2 to suck up the spoil 12, and optionally to also remove spoil12 from the microtrench 11. The inlet 111 comprises a hose. The inlet111 can be connected to the container 104 and the vacuum device 130connected to the container 104 so that when a vacuum is pulled on thecontainer 104, the spoil 12 is sucked through the inlet 111 into thecontainer 104. In this instance, the container 104 can be constructed tosubstantially maintain its shape when a vacuum is pulled. A safety valvecan be present to prevent too much of a vacuum being pulled on thecontainer 104. Alternatively, the inlet 111 can be connected to thevacuum device 130 and the spoil deposited into the container 104. Thevacuum device 130 has an intake system 113 or inlet 127 inside thecontainer 104 to suck up spoil 12 inside the container 104. An outlet116 of the vacuum device 130 transfers the spoil 12 to the fill device200 or to another vehicle 300 as shown in FIG. 4. Alternatively, thetruck 124 can be fitted with two vacuum devices 110 and 114 as shown inFIG. 4 in place of the single vacuum device 130. Thus, the containercarrier device 240 is constructed to move spoil 12 from the microtrencher 2 to the first container 104 and then to the fill device 200.The reel carrier device 242 comprises at least one reel holder 120.

As shown in FIGS. 6A-6E, the container 104 can be any desired shape,such as square, rectangular, or tubular and hold anywhere from 1 cu yardof spoil to 100 yds of spoil 12. The spoil intake, inlet 111, can be anydesired location on the container 104, such as on the top, back, frontor side of the container 104 or connected to the container 104 via thevacuum 110 or 130. Spoil removal intake system 113 or inlet 127 can belocated in any desired position in the container 104, such as on thebottom, side, front or rear. The intake system 113 can have one largeopening or multiple smaller openings spread out to remove the spoil 12evenly from the container 104. The container 104 can have an opening anda lifting device 129, such as hydraulics, to lift or tilt the container104 to move the spoil within the container 104 or to remove the spoilfrom the container. For example, the container 104 can be part of dumptruck. Thus, the container 104 can have the ability to off load spoil 12by tilting to either side to dump the spoil 12 through a door 183 or canbe raised, expelling the spoil 12 from the rear. The side wall(s) and orback of the container 104 can be locked manually or hydraulically toensure no spoil 12 or dust can leak out during the vacuum intake orouttake process. A fill gauge 160 can be installed showing how full thecontainer 104 is. An air valve 163 can be installed to adjust the airpressure inside of the container 104, such as allowing air to be removedduring and after operation when spoil 12 passes through the vacuumdevice and then into container 104 as shown in FIG. 4, or to allow airinto the container 104 to prevent too low of a vacuum in the container104 when the spoil 12 is sucked directly into the container as shown inFIG. 5. An air filter 167 can be installed allowing air to be releasedreducing pressure build up in the container 104 while containing dustinside of the container 104. Pressure gauge 161 can be installed tomonitor the pressure in the container 104. The interior of the container104 can have a stationary slant in the bed 119 or mechanical movingsystems 117 to help move the spoil 12 to a designated release point.

A conventional vacuum truck can be modified to remove spoil 12 from thecontainer 104 by adding the intake system 113, adding an outlet 116 tofill device 200, and modifying the vacuum device 130 and/or adding anadditional vacuum device to transfer spoil 12 from the saw 10 to thecontainer 104 and to the fill device 200. FIGS. 8A-8E illustrate amodified vacuum dump truck 124.

The multifunctional reel carrier, spoil material handling containerdevice 100 (FIG. 5) and the reel carrier 240 (FIG. 4) can each includesat least one reel holder 120 constructed to hold a reel 121 of cable orinnerduct/microduct 140. The multifunctional reel carrier, spoilmaterial handling container device 100 and the reel carrier 240 eachpreferably includes a plurality of reel holders 120 that can be adjustedin height 143 and moved manually or mechanically/hydraulically fromfront to back, back to front, side to side, or up and down. To reducethe overall height of the device, the reel holders 120 can be mounted ona separate trailer 125 that is towed by the truck 124.

The first vacuum device 110 and second vacuum device 114, and vacuumdevice 130 are constructed to suck up and expel the spoil. Commercialexamples of suitable vacuum devices 110, 114, 130 are those made by SCAGGiant Vac., DR Power, and Billy Goat. The inlets 111, 115, 127 andoutlets 112, 116 of the vacuum devices can be conventional hoses, suchas 4 to 16 inch diameter hoses. The vacuum devices 110, 114 can alsohave a water misting system 148 that is attached to a water tank 150.The misting system 148 can be engaged manually or electronicallyprogrammed to emit a water mist inside the container 104 minimizingdust. The vacuum devices 110, 114, 130 can run on gas, diesel, electricor solar power. The vacuum devices 110, 114, 130 can have a steelimpeller inside that will allow for any debris to be pulverized orchopped into smaller pieces. The vacuum devices 110, 114, 130 can bemounted on a truck or can be on a trailer and hitched to a vehicle fortransportation. The vacuum devices 110, 114, 130 can be hooked updirectly to a vehicle gas tank in order to eliminate a separate fuelingmechanism. The vacuum fuel tank can have its own independent gas tankfueling mechanism. If one vacuum is used to do both intake and outtake,a secondary outtake valve 156 can be used for the spoil to be expelled.The intake valve 154 may need to be closed or shut off so no spoils willbe expelled out of the saw connection. The intake system 113 can alsohave a valve 152 for controlling the amount of spoil 12 to be removedfrom the container 104. The vacuum can have a CFM (Cubic Feet perMinute) throttle allowing the intake and outtake speeds to be adjustedbased on the operator's requirements.

The present invention also relates to a continuous method of cutting amicrotrench 11, laying cable and/or innerduct/microduct 140 in themicrotrench 11, and then filling and sealing the microtrench 11 in onestep (also referred to as one pass) with the fill 212. An exemplarymethod is shown in FIGS. 3 and 4. A micro trencher 2 is used to dig atrench 11 and create spoil 12. The first vacuum device 110 is used tovacuum the spoil 12 from the microtrencher 2, preferably also from thetrench 11, and deposit the spoil 12 in the first container 104. Cable orinnerduct/microduct 140 is spooled from the reel 121 and laid in thetrench 11. A fill device 200 is then used to fill the trench 11 withfill 212 from an outlet 210 to cover the cable or innerduct/microduct140. The second vacuum device 114 can be used to vacuum at least aportion of the spoil 12 from the first container 104 and transfer thespoil 12 to the fill device 200 to form the fill 212 from the spoil 12.The trench can be filled with one or more of the following examples, butnot limited to, cement, grout, sand, self-leveling sealer, expansionjoint, epoxy which is inserted into the trench on top of the cable orinnerduct/microduct.

A further exemplary method is shown in FIG. 5. A micro trencher 2 isused to dig a trench 11 and create spoil 12. The vacuum device 130 isused to vacuum the spoil 12 from the micro trencher 2, preferably alsofrom the trench 11, and deposit the spoil 12 in the first container 104.Cable or innerduct/microduct 140 is spooled from the reel 121 and laidin the trench 11. A fill device 200 is then used to fill the trench 11with fill 212 from an outlet 210 to cover the cable orinnerduct/microduct 140. The vacuum device 130 can be used to vacuum atleast a portion of the spoil 12 from the first container 104 andtransfer the spoil 12 to the fill device 200 to form the fill 212 fromthe spoil 12.

One or more spoil transport devices are utilized in the presentinvention to transfer spoil from the micro trencher 2, and optionallyalso the trench 11, and move the spoil 12 to first container 104, filldevice 200, trucks, and/or any other devices utilized in the presentinvention. FIGS. 1-8 illustrate embodiments of the spoil transportdevices comprising vacuum devices, as discussed above. Instead of vacuumdevices, the spoil transport devices can be a conveyor 300, a screw 302,or any other spoil moving device as shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B.Preferably, the spoil transport device for removing spoil from the microtrencher 2 and trench 11 comprises a vacuum device.

A particularly preferred flowable concrete-based fill 212 can be formedby mixing together a bonding agent comprising a polymer additive(polymer bonding agent), concrete mixture (cement and aggregate) and acoloring agent to complete the micro trench or shallow trenchbackfilling operation. The spoil 12 can be used as part of the flowableconcrete-based fill 212. A preferred commercial example of the polymerbonding agent is SC polymer by SureCrete, which can be found athttps://www.surecretedesign.com/product/liquid-concrete-polymer/.Examples of the polymer bonding agent include latex modified bondingagents, acrylics, epoxies, styrene-acrylics, vinyl acetate ethylene(VAE), polyvinyl acetate (PVA), and styrene-butadiene resins (SBR). Inliquid form, polymer bonding can be supplied in two parts, liquid andpowder, to be mixed together prior to use. In dry form, the polymerbonding agent can be prepackaged with desired materials blended forspecific applications. A preferred polymer bonding agent is an acrylicpolymer. The polymer bonding agent can be added to the flowableconcrete-based fill 212 in conjunction with substituting sand and/orspoil for conventional gravel aggregate to allow for use in the microtrench or shallow narrow trench application. By altering the slump orviscosity of the concrete by altering the water content we were able tocontrol the flow rate and application of the mixture into the narrowtrench. There are other commercially available bonding agents that willperform similar the product above. Polymer bonding agents for concreteare well-known in the art and any desired polymer bonding agent can beutilized to increase the bond between the set fill and the roadway inthe microtrench.

One of ordinary skill in the art will be able to adjust the viscosity ofthe bonding agent/concrete mixture fill 212 so that the fill 212 canflow into the shallow narrow trench, such as less than 2″ in width andfrom 2″ to 20″ in depth.

In comparison, previous to the present polymer bonding agent/concretemixture, we used concrete mixtures or asphalt mixtures as the primarybackfill in the trench and then a chemical compound was utilized overtop of the mixture to seal the roadway from water intrusion. By usingthe concrete with the bonding agent in the trench we have eliminated theneed for multiple passes as the bonding agent will bond to the trenchand provide the necessary seal to the roadway, i.e. the entire fillprovides a seal to the existing roadway inside the microtrench. Thechemical compounds utilized previously in sealing the trenches arecostly, slow to deploy in some cases, and was required installationcrews to complete multiple steps in completing an operation.Furthermore, by coloring the bonding agent/concrete mixture to match theroadway color we have further reduced the cost of installation bycompleting the backfill in one step and the coloring is similar to thatof an existing roadway. The bonding agent provided the adhesion to theexisting surface which in the past was completed with different muchmore expensive chemicals. The bonding agent/concrete mixture allows forthe installation of a cement based product with adhesivecharacteristics. Filling a microtrench in one step using a color matchedbonding agent/concrete mixture instead of multiple steps has not beendone heretofore.

By pumping or using commercially available concrete installation tools,substituting sand and/or spoil for conventional stone aggregate,regulating the viscosity of the concrete product by adjusting the watercontent, adding the coloring agent to the concrete, and adding a bondingagent, we have developed a method of completing the shallow narrowtrench that is far faster and significantly more cost effective thanprior solutions that are utilized in the industry. This allows forsignificant cost savings compared to other methods of backfilling ashallow narrow trench.

The figures show exemplary devices for practicing the claimed inventionthat are now being used by the inventor to install optical fiber cablefor Google. The present invention allows surprisingly far faster andmore efficient installation of the optical fiber. For example, ourmultiple crews installing optical fiber cable for Google are installingfrom 4000 to 6000 feet of optical fiber cable per day. We believe up to7000 feet per day can be achieved. Conventional methods only allow about1000 feet per day. The present invention causes far less disruption ofroads and pathways. The present invention can also return the roads andpathways to their original state with the same colored fill. The presentinvention is not limited to the order of the devices and methodsillustrated in the figures and any desired order of devices and stepscan be utilized to practice the claimed invention.

In another embodiment, a marker line 400 as shown in FIG. 10 can beapplied to the surface 402 of the ground to be cut by the microtrencher. In this manner, utilities can see where the micro trench 11will be formed so that the utilities can mark locations of theirinfrastructure 410, such as electrical lines, optical cable, waterlines, sewer lines, or any other infrastructure. The marker line 400 canhave start 406 and stop 408 locations, and can identify the depth. Themarker line 400 can be a solid line, dashed, dotted, contain letters,numbers or symbols, and can be any desired color with white being themost preferred.

In another embodiment of the invention, a temporary fiber optic cablenetwork can be laid out on the surface and utilized as a temporaryoptical fiber network. The temporary optical fiber network can beprotected with any desired protection device, such as conduit, tarps,tape or other type of cover, that can be skid proof, and constructed foroutdoor use which can withstand foot and vehicle traffic. For example,the tape can be heated to activate an adhesive, or peelstick, silicone,epoxy glue or any desired type of adhesive. The surface can be a street,sidewalk, driveway, asphalt, concrete, dirt, interior floor, or anyother desired surface.

As shown in FIGS. 11A-11G, the temporary optical fiber network 500includes at least one optical fiber cable 502, and preferably aplurality of optical fiber cables 502. The optical fiber cables 502 canbe coiled on a reel 504 or loosely coiled 506. Each end of the opticalfiber cables 502 can have a first connector 514 installed thereon, or aconnector can be installed in the field by a technician. The opticalfiber cable 502 can be uncoiled to a desired distance and a protectiondevice 512, such as tape, applied thereover. A first end of the opticalfiber cable 502 can be connected to a desired feed using the firstconnector 514. The second end of the coil can be connected to anydesired location using the second connector 516. The connectors 514, 516can be connected to splitters 518 or any desired device. The desiredlocation can be dwelling, sporting event, military site, or any otherdesired location.

The reel 504 and loose coil 506 allows the fiber cable 502 to bedeployed to any desired length and also to be recoiled if necessary. Thesecond end connector 516 can be constructed so that the second endconnector 516 can remain connected while the reel 504 is rotated,similar in design to the Cam plex reels. Alternatively, the second endconnector 516 can be disconnected while the reel 504 is rotated so thatthe connector 516 can rotate with the reel 504. The loose coil 506 orwound reel 504 can be installed within a box 520. The box 520 cancontain multiple reels 504 or coils 506. The box 520 can be formed fromplastic, metal, galvanized, stainless steel, concrete, fiberglass,rubber or any other suitable material. The reels 504 can be mounted onbracket(s) or rod(s) 522 that can be placed from side to side(horizontal) or from bottom to top (vertical). Spacers can be placed inbetween the reels so they can spin independently of each other. The box520 can have any desired shape, such as tubular, square, triangular,rectangular or any other desired shape. The box 520 can have a lid ordoor that can be locked or otherwise secured. The box 520 can be mountedon a roller. The box 520 can be buried, mounted pole, or secured in anydesired location.

The box 520 can have one or more optical fiber extenders, such as reels504 or loose coils 506, for input 534 to allow optical fiber cable 502to be unwound for a temporary or final installation. The box 520 canhave one or more optical fiber extenders, such as reels 504 or loosecoils 506, for output 532 to allow optical fiber cable 502 to be unwoundfor a connection(s) to and additional box(es) 520 for temporary or finalinstallation. The box 520 can have one or more optical fiber extenders,such as reels 504 or coils 506, for fiber drops 530 to allow opticalfiber cable 502 to be unwound for connections to customers for temporaryor final installation.

After using the temporary optical fiber network 500, once the desiredlocation of the optical fiber 502 and box(s) 520 are known, the opticalfiber network can be made permanent by removing the protection device512, creating slack in the optical fiber 502 by uncoiling the opticalfiber from the extenders in the box 520, creating a microtrench asdescribed herein, burying the optical fiber and covering the opticalfiber with a fill, and permanently mounting or burying the box(s) 520.

Fiber optic converter/extenders on a 1000 foot reel are known.Commercial examples are cmx-tacngo-sdi tac-n-go 3G sdi fiber opticconverter/extender, TAC1 Simplex LC fiber optic tactical cable reel, andTac-N-Go fiber optic by Camplex. www.camplex.com. These are fielddeployable optical fiber reel systems. Corning systems also providesfiber optic convert/extenders at any desired length, any number ofconnectors, such as 1 strand to 864 strands, usually from 6 strands to432 strands, and the fiber optic cables can be connectorized in field oralready have a connector applied. The known reels can be utilized in thepresent box 520 and permanently mounted.

The temporary taped optical fiber installation can be utilized toprovide an optical fiber network 500 to a desired user, such as aneighborhood, business, sporting event, military complex, or any otherdesired location. Once the desired location of the optical fiber isdetermined, slack can be provided in the optical fiber 502, the tape 512removed, a nanotrench or microtrench 11 can be formed, the optical fiber502 installed in the microtrench 11, and then the microtrench 11 can befilled 212 using any desired method, such as the methods describedherein above. Instead of the microtrench 11, the optical fiber can bemounted in conduits, drills, core drill, hung, walls, hydrovac, and/ordirectional drill. If the optical fiber 502 is on a reel 504 within thebox 520, the box 520 and reel 504 can be permanently mounted. Inaddition to the fill 212 described above, the buried fiber cable 502 canbe covered with self leveling grout, caulking, asphalt, tar, SL1, coldpatch, concrete, sterling Loyd, of other fill products.

The fill 212 can be covered with a spray on waterproofing sealer. Apreferred example is the TRANSLINE SOLVENT-BASED SOLID COLORWATERPROOFING SEALER AND TREATMENT—BLACK developed as a modification tothe Black Gorilla Paint, 22A-E001, to help with spraying the materialeasier. The TRANSLINE SOLVENT-BASED SOLID COLOR WATERPROOFING SEALER ANDTREATMENT—BLACK can be changed to the same formula as the Black GorillaPaint, 22A-E001. Alternatively, the Black Gorilla paint can be utilized.

The present invention includes a system, method and device forconnecting a fiber optic cable 502, by the second connector 516, to afeeder line that supplies one or more signal types, such as television(TV), data (e.g., internet access), and telephone (fixed wireline orcellular), to a plurality of units (offices or dwellings) in amulti-unit building. In some example embodiments, the system, method anddevice may be used to connect a fiber optic cable 502 to existinginternal wiring (twisted pair, coaxial cable, etc.). In addition oralternatively, the device can be used to connect a feeder line to awifi, local network, telephone network, or any other desired connectionwithin the building. The invention can also be used to supply aneighborhood. For example, if coax is already connected to an existingneighborhood, the coax can be connected to cards in a box and an opticalfiber cable 502 can used to input a feeder line into the input 534 ofthe box 520 so that coax does not have to be replaced savingconsiderable time and expense. In this manner the box can be placed on atelephone pole or near an optical fiber connection so that and opticalfiber cable 502 input can be connected to the multiple existing coaxcables.

Specifically, in many buildings it may be cost prohibitive and/orimpractical to run fiber optical fiber cable 502 to each unit. Inaddition, the various owners of units may want to purchase services thatrequire different drop connections (i.e., the wiring (twisted pair,fiber, coax, etc.) that connects the unit to the feeder line usingoptical fiber cable 502. In addition, it may be more economical to usean existing drop connection (e.g., twisted pair) for some services(e.g., telephone). For example, one dwelling unit may purchase onlytelephone service (which may employ a twisted pair drop connection),another dwelling unit may purchase telephone and television service(which may employ a coaxial cable or coax cable and twisted pair dropconnection), and yet another dwelling unit may purchase only internetaccess (which may employ a fiber conductor or coaxial cable dropconnection). Embodiments of the present invention may be used to servicebuildings to supply service to units using any of various mediaincluding twisted pair, coaxial cable, fiber optics, CAT-5 (Ethernet),and/or others. The disclosure in my previous U.S. Pat. No. 9,485,468 isincorporated herein by reference.

While the device for cutting a microtrench device is preferably utilizedto bury the temporary optical fiber network, any trenching device can beutilized. For example, the trench can be ⅛ inch to 1.5 inch wide and upto 6 inches deep when using the microtrenched, or 0.75 to 3 inches wide,and as deep as 24 inches for larger trenching devices.

As shown in FIGS. 12 and 13, the device identifier fill 902 below thesurface can comprise any desired fill material, for example, but notlimited to dirt, spoil, sand, concrete, or flowable fill that has beencolored, so that one or more specific color(s) identifies that a device900 is buried below the device identifier fill 902. The color(s) of thedevice identifier fill 902 can also identify the specific type of burieddevice 900. For example, the device identifier fill 902 can be tinted,dyed, or painted to any color(s) to signify the location and/or type ofburied device(s) 900. For example, a first color for electrical, asecond color for water conduit, a third color for sewer conduit, afourth color for cable, a fifth color for gas, a sixth color fortelecommunication devices, and additional colors can be used to identifycombinations of these buried devices 900 and/or other buried devices900. The communications devices can include any of optical fibers,connectors, amplifiers, and any device utilized in communications,including but not limited to television, radio, voice, and internet. Theburied devices 900 includes the multiple cables and/orinnerducts/microducts 140. Orange or yellow is preferred for buriedtelecommunication equipment and cables. Thus, when workers are digging,if they see the device identifier fill 902 in the ground or on thedigging device they can stop digging to avoid damaging the burieddevice(s) 900. The device identifier fill 902 can be used in anyapplication and is not limited to microtrenching. In this instance, thedevice identifier fill 902 can be the fill 212, dirt or any material towhich a coloring agent can be added and then used to cover the burieddevice. The device identifier fill 902 can be used during burying anydevice 900 to identify the location and/or type of the buried device900. In addition, when microtrenching, the surface of the trench can befilled with the fill 212 or surface coating having a color tosubstantially match the surface, such as black for asphalt and white forcement, the below ground device identifier fill 902 can be utilized toidentify the type and/or location of the buried device(s) 902.Preferably, the coloring agent is non-toxic, environmentally friendly,and will not contaminate ground water. Coloring agents, from paints anddyes, are now well known and any suitable coloring agent can be utilizedin the device identifier fill 902. A preferred coloring agent (colorant)is a powdered concrete dye, such as those sold commercially fromQuickrete, Stone Technologies, or DCI.

When utilizing the device identifier fill 902 in the microtrenching, thefill device 200 can fill the trench with the device identifier fill 902and then simply spray or apply a coating or top surface of fill 212 overthe device identifier fill 902. FIG. 13 illustrates the fill device 200applying the device identifier fill 902 first in the microtrench 11above the cable and/or innerduct/microduct 140, and then applying thecolored fill 212 to match the surface. Alternatively, a coating can besprayed or applied over the device identifier fill 902 and/or over thefill 212.

The device identifier fill 902 can be any desired thickness above theburied device 900. Preferably, the device identifier fill 902 fills mostof the trench to provide a warning to construction workers digging overthe buried device 900. Examples of suitable thickness are from 1 to 36inches, preferably from 1 to 24 inches.

In addition to or in place of color, the device identifier fill 902 canincorporate other means to provide location and/or identification of theburied device 200.

Google tried to use a commercially available hand-applied, epoxy-basedcrack and surface repair material to fill a microtrench thinking fillinga microtrench is the same as filling and repairing a crack. See forexamplehttps://www.pocketables.com/2019/02/google-fiber-finishes-digging-very-shallow-grave-in-louisville-ky-rip.html,published on Pocketable on 7 Feb. 2019. The result was an epic failurewhich “caused service to fail with fiber popping up onto the streets andgetting ripped out of the ground” and the entire city of Louisville hadto be abandoned. Google's failure clearly demonstrates that properlyfilling and sealing a microtrench containing an optical fiber under aroadway is different from simply filling and repairing cracks.

See alsohttps://www.tellusventure.com/blog/microtrenching-fail-drives-google-fiber-out-of-louisville/,published on Tellus Venture Associates, 8 Feb. 2019, which demonstratesthat filling the microtrench with asphalt also does not work and theseal will fail under vehicle and weather exposing the optical fiber tothe environment. This article further discusses the failure of Google,stating that “the epoxy compound that Google was using to fill up theshallow slits it dug in streets for its fiber—that's how microtrenchingis done—failed. The fix they planned to use was to go back, scrape theepoxy out of the slits and refill them with asphalt. Reading between thelines of Google's blog post, that technique didn't work any better—theimplication is that Google would have to rip everything out and startover again if it wanted to keep doing business in Louisville.” See alsohttps://www.wdrb.com/news/business/sunday-edition-where-is-google-fiber-mostly-in-the-highlands/article_569112e0-421e-58ef-be24-c2e42e5e53d2.html,published in the Sunday Edition, WDRB, which shows pictures of the fillmaterial laying on top of the roadway exposing the optical fiber to theenvironment. The article states: “But in Belknap and Deer Park, thesealant Google Fiber's contractors used to fill the trenches has poppedfree, leaving exposed conduit and shards of black, rubber-like materialsplayed in streets. That's frustrated some residents. “It feels like youare using us for a science-fair experiment,” Greg Winn, an architect wholives on Boulevard Napolean, told Google Fiber representatives during aBelknap Neighborhood Association meeting on Wednesday. “ . . . Ourstreets look awful.”

Google has been aggressively attempting to copy the present fill 212having cement, polymer bonding agent, and coloring agent that cancontinuously fill and seal the microtrench 11 in a single continuousstep to provide a sealed microtrench 11 that substantially matches thecolor of the roadway in one pass. Google has tried numerous concretetype materials, such as Fast Patch which a well-known concrete crackrepair product. However, the fill material based on Fast Patch oozed outof the microtrench and did not adequately seal the microtrench. Googlealso tried numerous tar based sealants, such as Craftco, to try and seala microtrench. However, in one example, an inspector for the city of SanAntonio was able to easily peel the Craftco tar fill from themicrotrench like peeling tape. Conventional cement crack repair productsare not known for successfully filling and sealing a microtrench. It isnot obvious to use common crack repair and polymer containing materialsto fill a microtrench in a roadway. The present invention requiredsignificant research and testing to discover a fill 212 that exhibits afast final set (2 hours or less), high adhesion characteristics, lowpermeability, and a high density to provide a sealed microtrench thatwill not fail under exposure to the environment and vehicle traffic.

Concrete usually has a final set within 24-48 hours. Initial and finalset times as used herein are measured at 72° F. (22° C.) ASTM C 191 forhydraulic cement. The fill 212 is similar to hydraulic cement in that itis similar to mortar and must prevent water infiltration into the sealedmicrotrench 11. The initial set time is calculated as the time elapsedbetween the initial contact of cement and water and the time when theneedle penetration into the cured fill is at 25 mm. The final set timeis calculated as the time elapsed between the initial contact of cementand water and when the needle does not sink visibly into the cured fill.In the present invention, where microtrenching is continuous, laying theoptical fiber in the microtrench 11 is continuous, and thenfilling/sealing the microtrench 11 with the fill 212 is a continuoussingle step, the fill 212 has a final set time of less than 2 hours,preferably less than 1 hour, and more preferably in about 30-40 minutes.The final set time of the fill 212 can be adjusted by using fastercements, such as calcium sulfoaluminate cement, and/or by using a cementaccelerator. The fill 212 exhibits a compression strength sufficient forvehicular traffic to pass over the microtrench 11 without damaging thecured fill in the microtrench 11 in a far shorter time period than priorart methods of filling a microtrench.

Examples of cement accelerators include calcium nitrate (Ca(NO₃)₂),calcium formate (Ca(HCOO)₂), sodium nitrate (NaNO₃), calcium chloride(CaCl₂)) and calcium sulfoaluminate cement. Further examples includesalts of nitrate (for setting), thiocyanate (for hardening),triethanolamines, alkanolamines, carboxylic acids, sulphates, andaluminum sulphate. The accelerator can be added in an amount to providea desired fill curing rate in the microtrench, such as a final set timeof 6 hours or less, preferably 4 hours or less, and most preferably 2hours or less.

Conventional fill devices 200, as shown if FIGS. 3 and 4, typically havemultiple containers, such as dry containers that can be used for storingthe cement, powdered dye, cement accelerator, aggregate, and any otherdry materials, and liquid containers that can be used for storing water,liquid bonding agent, and any other liquids. The conventional filldevices 200 also can contain a mixed fill container which holds theformed flowable concrete-based fill material 212, proportioning systemsfor selecting amounts of dry materials and liquids to combine, mixingdevices for mixing the dry materials and liquids, and deliverymechanisms for delivering the formed flowable concrete-based fillmaterial 212 to the microtrench 11. Commercial examples of conventionalfill devices 200 include the volumetric concrete mixers sold by CemenTech, such as the M and C series trucks, shown at www.cementech.com.Thus, using the conventional fill device 200, the cement, cementaccelerator, aggregate, bonding agent, colorant, and water can bestored, mixed as desired, and then applied to the microtrench in lessthan 2 hours after mixing, preferably less than 1 hour after mixing, andmost preferably the fill material 212 is formed and applied to themicrotrench 11 in real time. In this manner, the steps of filling,sealing and coloring the microtrech can be conducted in one stepcontinuously as discussed herein, without requiring multiples passesover the microtrench 11. The fill device 200 can follow behind themicrotrencher 2 as shown in FIGS. 3-5 to provide a method ofcontinuously cutting the microtrench 11, laying the optical fiber and/orinnerduct/microduct in the microtrench 11, and filling the microtrench11 with the flowable concrete-based fill 212 in one pass, without havingto conduct multiple passes.

A preferred fill 212 for use in the present invention is formed bymixing together a polymer bonding agent, portland cement, calciumsulfoaluminate cement, a colorant, aggregate, and water. The fill 212ingredients can be mixed in a conventional fill device 200 just beforesimultaneously filling and sealing the microtrench in one step, toprovide a sealed microtrench having a color substantially the same asthe roadway to put the roadway substantially back to an original statebefore cutting the microtrench

A particularly preferred flowable concrete-based fill 212 can be formedby mixing together the bonding agent SC polymer, Fastrack 400 portlandcement from Western Material & Design (mixture of Portland cement andcalcium sulfoaluminate cement), LLC, a concrete dye, aggregate andwater. The water is added in a sufficient amount to provide a desiredviscosity and flow rate from the fill device 212 to fill and seal theentire microtrench 11 in one pass. This preferred fill 212 exhibitedminimal shrinkage (0.020% after 28 days using ASTM C157, air cure),which is far less than conventional cement/sand mixtures. Reducedshrinkage provides a better bond to the microtrench 11 and also an evensurface with the surrounding roadway. Using ASTM C39, the fill 212exhibited a compressive strength after 2 hours 3,500 psi (24.1 MPa); 3hours 4,300 psi (29.6 MPa); 1 day 5,740 psi (48.3 MPa); 7 days 6,680 psi(48.3 MPa); and 28 days 7,260 psi (55.2 MPa). Thus, the fill 212exhibited a compression strength sufficient for vehicular traffic topass over the microtrench 11 without damaging the cured fill in themicrotrench 11 in a far shorter time period than prior art methods offilling a microtrench. Conventional cement/sand formulations have asubstantially lower compressive strength. The bonding agent provided asufficient bond to the sides of the road in the microtrench 11 toprevent water penetration into the sealed microtrench 11, so that thesealed microtrench 11 will not be adversely affected during freezing andthawing throughout the seasons.

The cement, cement accelerator, polymer bonding agent, colorant, andaggregate can be added in the amounts necessary to provide the requiredproperties to fill and seal the microtrench 11 for vehicular use andexposure to the environment, and provide a final set time of 2 hours orless, as discussed above. Exemplary amounts include, based on weight %of the entire fill 212, when a cement accelerator is utilized:

-   -   1-80% cement accelerator;    -   1-80% cement;    -   0.01-5% colorant;    -   0.01-20% polymer bonding agent;    -   1-80% aggregate; and    -   10-80% water in an amount to provide flowable fill.

When a faster setting cement, such as calcium sulfoaluminate cement, isutilized, exemplary amounts include, based on weight % of the entirefill 212, when a cement accelerator is utilized:

-   -   0-80% cement accelerator;    -   1-80% cement;    -   0.01-5% colorant;    -   0.01-20% polymer bonding agent;    -   1-80% aggregate; and    -   10-80% water in an amount to provide flowable fill.

When burying telecommunications cable, such as optical fiber, additionalprotection can be added such steel plate above the cable and or a steelconduit around the cable.

When burying telecommunications cable, such as optical fiber, additionalprotection can be added such steel plate above the cable and or a steelconduit around the cable.

Microtrencher having utility avoidance safety device:

Modern cities require an extensive range of utilities to function. Theutilities include at least water, electricity, gas, telephone, and fiberoptics. These utilities are typically provided through undergroundconduits. In theory, the location of the utilities is carefully recordedand held centrally by city authorities. In practice, this does notuniversally occur and the location of many utilities can be unrecordedor recorded incorrectly. The determined location of the utility may beacquired by underground imaging, which is commonly accomplished by theuse of ground penetrating radar (GPR). Typically, the location ofutilities are separately determined by GPR and the location marked forlater cutting or digging.

The present microtrenching system disclosed herein creates a microteachon city roadways (cement or asphalt) at far faster rates than previousmethods of microtrenching. In the prior art stop-and-go methods ofmicrotrenching, there is ample time to GPR the area and provide marks onthe roadways. Furthermore, in the prior art slower rate of cutting amicrotrench there is less of a chance of missing a mark on the roadway.However, in the present invention, since the speed of cutting amicrotrench is far greater, the chance of missing a utility mark on theroadway is greater.

A conventional GPR system comprises an electromagnetic detection unit, acomputer system that receives detection data from the detection unit; auser interface device coupled to the computer system; and a displaycoupled to the computer system. The computer system interprets thedetection data to provide a visual representation of the underground onthe display. Computer systems are now well known and any suitablecomputer system comprising a processor in communication withnon-volatile, non-transitory memory can be utilized.

U.S. patent publication No. 2003/0012411 (Sjostrom), discloses a systemand method for displaying and collecting GPR data. U.S. Pat. No.6,617,996 (Johansson), discloses a GPR system to provide an audiblesignal regarding size and how deep. The complete disclosures of thesepatents and publications are incorporated herein by reference. DitchWitch 2450R GPR is commercial example of a GPR machine that can detectat suitable speeds of 5.6 mph.

In place of the usual GPR used to locate buried utilities, the inventioncan utilize other means of revealing buried utilizes or any tomography,including but not limited to, radio frequency identification, soundwaves, electrons, hydraulic, vibration, magnetic, sonar, ultrasound,microwaves, xrays, gamma rays, neutrons, electrical resistivitytomography, Multi-channels Analysis of Surface Waves (MASW), and/orFrequency-domain Electro Magnetics (FDEM) induction. Any of thesealternatives and later developed alternatives can be utilized. Thus, theunder-roadway detection unit 700 can comprise GPR and/or any otheralternative for detecting objects buried under the roadway. Preferably,the under-roadway detection unit 700 comprises a GPR.

As shown in FIGS. 14A and 14B, the claimed invention utilizes anunder-roadway detection unit 700 in a novel utility avoidance device foruse on a modified microtrencher 2 to create a microtrench in city street(also referred to as a roadway) using the fast microtrenching system ofthe present invention. The under-roadway detection unit 700 can bemounted on the microtrencher 2 in front of the cutting wheel 10 tosurvey under the roadway before cutting the microtrench. Detection datafrom the under-roadway detection unit 700 can be sent to a computersystem 702. The computer system 702 can send display information to thedisplay 704 to display what is under the roadway in the same manner asconventional GPR systems. The computer system 702 can also interpret thedetection data in real time to identify objects under the roadway. Forexample, the computer system 702 can distinguish between utilities 710under the roadway and other objects under the roadway, such asreinforcing steel. The interpretation, i.e. a utility 710, can also bedisplayed on the display 704 for the microtrencher 2 operator. Thecomputer system 702 can also determine the location of the identifiedutility 710, or object, to be avoided, such as depth, size, and distancefrom cutting wheel 10. A user interface device 713 can be coupled to thecomputer system for the operator to control the under-roadway detectionunit 700. FIGS. 14A and 14C show the cutting wheel in a lower cuttingposition 708.

If the computer system 702 identifies a buried utility 710 in the pathof the cutting wheel 10, the computer system can send an alert 714 tothe microtrencher 2 operator, raise the cutting wheel 10 using a heightadjustment device 706, and/or stop forward movement of the microtrencher2. In this manner, there is added protection against undesirable cuttingof buried utilities 710 by the cutting wheel 10.

Cutting wheel height adjustment devices 706 are known. An example isdisclosed in U.S. patent publication No. 2016/0376767 (Miller), thecomplete disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Thus,as shown in FIG. 14B, any known cutting wheel height adjustment device706 can be use in the present invention to raise the cutting wheel 10,shown at 712, when an object buried under the roadway is identified anddetermined to be a utility 710 and is in the path of the cutting wheel10 by the computer system 702.

Vehicle control systems for automatically stopping or slowing down amotorized vehicle are now well known. Examples are cruise control, crashavoidance systems, and auto drive systems. The vehicle control systemcan control any of the motor speed, transmission, clutch, and/or thebrake system. Thus, any of these well-known vehicle control systems canbe use in the present invention to stop the motorized vehicle 701, whichis part of the microtrencher 2, when an under roadway utility 710 isidentified and determined to be in the path of the cutting wheel 10 bythe computer system 702. In this regard, the computer system 702 is incommunication can be in communication with the vehicle control system703.

Additional attachments can be connected to the computer system 702 asdesired. Examples of additional attachments are shown in FIG. 14C. Theconnections between the additional attachments, under-roadway detectionunit 700, computer system 702, network 800, user interface devices 820and/or server 822 can be wired and/or wireless.

An example of a first additional attachment is a trench depth measurer720 which is configured to measure the depth of the microtrench 11 andsend the measurements to the computer system 702, the user interfacedevice 820, and/or a server 822. Another additional attachment is atrench measuring device 722 that can measure width and/or depth of themicrotrench 11 and send the measurements to the computer system 702, theuser interface device 820, and/or a server 822. The measurements can betaken in real time. The trench measuring device 722 can optionally takevideo of the microtrench.

The computer system 702 can comprise a global positioning device orother positioning device to map the location of the microtrench 11,buried utilities 710 detected by the under-roadway detection unit 700,and the buried optical fiber and/or innerduct/microduct.

The computer system 702 can be connected to a network 800 fortransmitting microtrenching data to a server 822 connected to thenetwork 800 and/or user interface devices 820 connected to the network800. The microtrenching data can include, for example, the measurementsof the microtrench 11, video of the microtrench 11, location of themicrotrench 11, location of the buried utilities 710 detected by theunder-roadway detection unit 700, location of the buried optical fiberand/or innerduct/microduct, speed of microtrenching, and any otherdesired information as desired, in real time. The microtrenching datacan also be stored on the computer system 702, or by any other means,such as USB, flash drives, etc., for later uploading or accessing.

With the present method and system, the location of buried utilities canbe accurately determined, the microtrench 11 cut, spoil vacuumed out ofthe microtrench 11, the measurements of the microtrench measured 720,722, the optical fiber and/or innerduct/microduct can be installed inthe microtrench 11, and microtrench 11 filled, all conductedsimultaneously and continuously at the rates disclosed herein above,which are far faster rates than previously. The microtrench informationcan be uploaded in real time to a central database for use by the city,managers, traffic controllers, supervisors, and any others as desired.In this manner, the actual location of buried utilities can be moreprecisely mapped and stored in city records.

In the description, for purposes of explanation and not limitation,specific details are set forth, such as particular networks,communication systems, computers, terminals, devices, components,techniques, storage devices, data and network protocols, softwareproducts and systems, operating systems, development interfaces,hardware, etc. in order to provide a thorough understanding of thepresent invention. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in theart that the present invention can be practiced in other embodimentsthat depart from these specific details. Detailed descriptions ofwell-known networks, computers, digital devices, storage devices,components, techniques, data and network protocols, software productsand systems, development interfaces, operating systems, and hardware areomitted so as not to obscure the description of the present invention.All use of the word “example” are intended to describe non-limitingexamples of the invention.

The operations described in the Figures and herein can be implemented asexecutable code stored on a computer or machine readable non-transitorytangible storage medium (e.g., floppy disk, hard disk, ROM, EEPROM,nonvolatile RAM, CD-ROM, etc.) that are completed based on execution ofthe code by a processor circuit implemented using one or more integratedcircuits; the operations described herein also can be implemented asexecutable logic that is encoded in one or more non-transitory tangiblemedia for execution (e.g., programmable logic arrays or devices, fieldprogrammable gate arrays, programmable array logic, application specificintegrated circuits, etc.).

To facilitate an understanding of the principles and features of thevarious embodiments of the present invention, various illustrativeembodiments are explained below. Although example embodiments of thepresent invention are explained in detail, it is to be understood thatother embodiments are contemplated. Accordingly, it is not intended thatthe present invention is limited in its scope to the details ofconstruction and arrangement of components set forth in the followingdescription or examples. The present invention is capable of otherembodiments and of being practiced or carried out in various ways.

As used in the specification and the appended claims, the singular forms“a,” “an” and “the” include plural references unless the context clearlydictates otherwise. For example, reference to a component is intendedalso to include composition of a plurality of components. References toa composition containing “a” constituent is intended to include otherconstituents in addition to the one named.

Also, in describing the example embodiments, terminology will beresorted to for the sake of clarity. It is intended that each termcontemplates its broadest meaning as understood by those skilled in theart and includes all technical equivalents that operate in a similarmanner to accomplish a similar purpose.

It is also to be understood that the mention of one or more method stepsdoes not preclude the presence of additional method steps or interveningmethod steps between those steps expressly identified. Similarly, it isalso to be understood that the mention of one or more components in acomposition does not preclude the presence of additional components thanthose expressly identified. Such other components or steps not describedherein can include, but are not limited to, for example, similarcomponents or steps that are developed after development of thedisclosed technology.

As illustrated, lines or arrows between elements can denotecommunications between the different elements. These communications cantake any form known by those of skill in the art, including digital,telephonic, or paper. The communications can be through a WAN, LAN,analog phone line, etc. The information communicated can be in anyformat appropriate for the transmission medium.

“Data storage” can be non-transitory tangible memory, such as any one ora combination of a hard drive, random access memory, flash memory,read-only memory and a memory cache, among other possibilities. The datastorage can include a database, implemented as relational databasetables or structured XML documents or any other format. Such a databasecan be used to store the information gathered from transaction recordsand Thing Records. Non-volatile memory is preferred.

“Processor” can refer to a single data processor on a single computingdevice or a collection of data processors. The collection of dataprocessors can reside on a single computing device or be spread acrossmultiple computing devices. The processor can execute computer programcode stored in the data storage or a memory. In one example, theprocessor can execute computer program code representative offunctionalities of various components of the system.

While certain implementations of the disclosed technology have beendescribed in connection with what is presently considered to be the mostpractical and various implementations, it is to be understood that thedisclosed technology is not to be limited to the disclosedimplementations, but, on the contrary, is intended to cover variousmodifications and equivalent arrangements included within the scope ofthe appended claims. Although specific terms are employed herein, theyare used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes oflimitation.

Certain implementations of the disclosed technology are described abovewith reference to block and flow diagrams of systems and methods and/orcomputer program products according to example implementations of thedisclosed technology. It will be understood that one or more blocks ofthe block diagrams and flow diagrams, and combinations of blocks in theblock diagrams and flow diagrams, respectively, can be implemented bycomputer-executable program instructions. Likewise, some blocks of theblock diagrams and flow diagrams do not have to be performed in theorder presented or if at all, according to some implementations of thedisclosed technology.

Computer program instructions can also be stored in a non-transientcomputer-readable memory that can direct a computer or otherprogrammable data processing apparatus to function in a particularmanner, such that the instructions stored in the computer-readablememory produce an article of manufacture including instruction meansthat implement one or more functions specified in the flow diagram blockor blocks.

FIG. 14C describes an example of a system. The system comprises userinterface devices 820, a server 822, and computer system 702, allinterconnected via a communication network 800. All interconnections canbe direct, indirect, wireless and/or wired as desired.

The network 800 can be any desired network including the internet ortelephone network. Various networks 800 can be implemented in accordancewith embodiments of the invention, including a wired or wireless localarea network (LAN) and a wide area network (WAN), wireless personal areanetwork (PAN) and other types of networks that comprise or are connectedto the Internet. When used in a LAN networking environment, computerscan be connected to the LAN through a network interface or adapter. Whenused in a WAN networking environment, computers typically include amodem, router, switch, or other communication mechanism. Modems can beinternal or external, and can be connected to the system bus via theuser-input interface, or other appropriate mechanism. Computers can beconnected over the Internet, an Intranet, Extranet, Ethernet, or anyother system that provides communications, such as by the network. Somesuitable communications protocols can include TCP/IP, UDP, OSI,Ethernet, WAP, IEEE 802.11, Bluetooth, Zigbee, IrDa, WebRTC, or anyother desired protocol. Furthermore, components of the system cancommunicate through a combination of wired or wireless paths, includingthe telephone networks.

The system can be accessed via any user interface device 820 that iscapable of connecting to the server 822 via the network 800. A pluralityof user interface devices 822 can be connected to the server 800. Anexample user interface device 820 contains a web browser and display.This includes user interface devices 820 such as internet connectedtelevisions and projectors, tablets, iPads, Mac OS computers, Windowscomputers, e-readers, and mobile user devices such as the smartphones,iPhone, Android, and Windows Phone, and other communication devices. Theuser interface device 820 preferably is a smartphone. The smartphone 820can be in any form, such as a hand held device, wristband, or part ofanother device, such as vehicle.

The computer processing unit (CPU) of the user interface device 820 canbe implemented as a conventional microprocessor, application specificintegrated circuit (ASIC), digital signal processor (DSP), programmablegate array (PGA), or the like. The CPU executes the instructions thatare stored in order to process data. The set of instructions can includevarious instructions that perform a particular task or tasks, such asthose shown in the appended flowchart. Such a set of instructions forperforming a particular task can be characterized as a program, softwareprogram, software, engine, module, component, mechanism, or tool. Thenon-transitory memory can include random access memory (RAM), ready-onlymemory (ROM), programmable memory, flash memory, and the like. Thememory, include application programs, OS, application data etc.

The server 822 and/or computer system 702 described herein can includeone or more computer systems directly connected to one another and/orconnected over the network 800. Each computer system can include aprocessor, non-transitory memory, user input and user output mechanisms,a network interface, and executable program code (software) comprisingcomputer executable instructions stored in non-transitory tangiblememory that executes to control the operation of the server 822 and/orcomputer system 702. Similarly, the processors functional componentsformed of one or more modules of program code executing on one or morecomputers. Various commercially available computer systems and operatingsystem software can be used to implement the hardware and software. Thecomponents of each server can be co-located or distributed. In addition,all or portions of the same software and/or hardware can be used toimplement two or more of the functional servers (or processors) shown.The server 822 and/or computer system 702 can run any desired operatingsystem, such as Windows, Mac OS X, Solaris or any other server basedoperating systems. Other embodiments can include different functionalcomponents. In addition, the present invention is not limited to aparticular environment or server 822 and/or computer system 702configuration. Preferably, the server 822 is a cloud based computersystem. If desired for the particular application, the server 822 orportions of the server 822 can be incorporated within one or more of theother devices of the system, including but not limited to a userinterface device 820.

The server 822 includes at least one web server and the query processingunit. The web server receives the user query and sends the user query tothe query processing unit. The query processing unit processes the userquery and responds back to the user interface device 820 and/or computersystem 702 via the web server. The query processing unit fetches datafrom the database server if additional information is needed forprocessing the user query. The database is stored in a non-transitorytangible memory, and preferably a non-volatile memory. The term“database” includes a single database and a plurality of separatedatabases. The server 822 can comprise the non-volatile memory or theserver 822 can be in communication with the non-volatile memory storingthe database. The database can be stored at different locations.

Software program modules and data stored in the non-transitory memorythe server 822 and/or non-volatile memory of the user interface device820 and/or computer system 702 can be arranged in logical collections ofrelated information on a plurality of computer systems having associatednon-volatile memories. The software and data can be stored using anydata structures known in the art including files, arrays, linked lists,relational database tables and the like. The server 822, computer system702 and mobile user device 820 can be programmed to perform theprocesses described herein.

It is to be understood that the foregoing illustrative embodiments havebeen provided merely for the purpose of explanation and are in no way tobe construed as limiting of the invention. Words used herein are wordsof description and illustration, rather than words of limitation. Inaddition, the advantages and objectives described herein may not berealized by each and every embodiment practicing the present invention.Further, although the invention has been described herein with referenceto particular structure, materials and/or embodiments, the invention isnot intended to be limited to the particulars disclosed herein. Rather,the invention extends to all functionally equivalent structures, methodsand uses, such as are within the scope of the appended claims. Thoseskilled in the art, having the benefit of the teachings of thisspecification, may affect numerous modifications thereto and changes maybe made without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention.

The invention claimed is:
 1. A microtrencher having a utility avoidancedevice configured for continuously cutting a microtrench in a roadwaycomprising: a motorized vehicle; a cutting wheel connected to thevehicle and being configured to continuously cut through a roadway andcreate a microtrench in the roadway; and a utility avoidance deviceconnected to the vehicle comprising: an under-roadway detection unitconfigured to detect a buried utility under the roadway before thecutting wheel cuts the microtrench in the roadway; a computer systemconfigured to receive detection data from the under-roadway detectionunit; a user interface device coupled to the computer system, a displaycoupled to the computer system, wherein the computer system isconfigured to interpret the detection data and identify the buriedutility under the roadway, determine whether the buried utility iswithin a path of the cutting wheel, and stopping forward movement of thevehicle.
 2. The microtrencher according to claim 1, further comprising acutting wheel height adjustment device configured to raise and lower thecutting wheel in relation to the roadway, and the cutting wheel heightadjustment device is in communication with the computer system.
 3. Themicrotrencher according to claim 1, further comprising a vehicle controlsystem configured to control a speed of the vehicle, and the vehiclecontrol system is in communication with the computer system.
 4. Themicrotrencher according to claim 3, wherein the vehicle control systemis configured to control a brake for the vehicle.
 5. The microtrencheraccording to claim 1, wherein the under-roadway detection unit comprisesa ground penetrating radar system.
 6. The microtrencher according toclaim 1, wherein the under-roadway detection unit comprises a radiofrequency identification system.
 7. The microtrencher according to claim1, further comprising a trench measuring device configured to measure adimension of the microtrench.
 8. A method of cutting a microtrench in aroadway comprising: providing a microtrencher having a utility avoidancesystem comprising a motorized vehicle; a cutting wheel connected to thevehicle and being configured to continuously cut through a roadway andcreate a microtrench in the roadway; and a utility avoidance deviceconnected to the vehicle comprising: an under-roadway detection unitconfigured to detect a buried utility under the roadway before thecutting wheel cuts the microtrench in the roadway, a computer systemconfigured to receive detection data from the under-roadway detectionunit, interpret detection data from the under-roadway detection unit,identify the buried utility under the roadway, and determine whether theburied utility is within a path of the cutting wheel; a user interfacedevice coupled to the computer system; a display coupled to the computersystem; continuously cutting the microtrench in the roadway; detecting aburied object under the roadway by the utility avoidance system;identifying the buried object as the buried utility; determining thatthe buried utility is in the path of the cutting wheel; and stoppingforward movement of the vehicle by a vehicle control system incommunication with the vehicle.
 9. The method according to claim 8,wherein the height adjustment device configured to raise and lower thecutting wheel in relation to the roadway and the method furthercomprising the height adjustment device raising the cutting wheel toavoid cutting the buried utility detected and identified to be in thepath of the cutting wheel.
 10. The method according to claim 8, whereinthe vehicle control system is configured to control a speed of thevehicle and the method further comprising the vehicle control systemslowing a speed of the vehicle to avoid cutting the buried utilitydetected and identified to be in the path of the cutting wheel.
 11. Themethod according to claim 10, wherein the vehicle control system isconfigured to control a brake for the vehicle, and the method furthercomprising stopping the vehicle to avoid cutting the buried utilitydetected and identified to be in the path of the cutting wheel.
 12. Themethod according to claim 8, wherein the under-roadway detection unitcomprises a ground penetrating radar system.
 13. The method according toclaim 8, wherein the under-roadway detection unit comprises a radiofrequency identification system.
 14. The method according to claim 8,further comprising measuring dimensions of the microtrench.
 15. Themethod according to claim 8, further comprising mapping the GlobalPositioning System (GPS) location of the buried utility detected by theunder-roadway detection unit.
 16. The method according to claim 8,further comprising uploading microtrenching data to a server via anetwork.
 17. The method according to claim 16, further comprising usinga user interface connected to the network to view the microtrenchingdata.
 18. The method according to claim 8, further comprisingcontinuously laying optical fiber cable or innerduct/microduct withinthe microtrench and continuously filling the microtrench with a flowableconcrete-based fill.
 19. The method according to claim 18, furthercomprising continuously transporting at least a portion of a spoil fromthe microtrencher to a first container constructed to contain the spoilusing at least one spoil transporting device; and continuously layingthe cable and/or innerduct/microduct in the micro-trench from a reeldevice.
 20. The method according to claim 19, wherein the steps ofcontinuously transporting the spoil from the micro-trencher to the firstcontainer constructed to contain spoil using a first spoil transportingdevice and continuously laying at least one of the cable andinnerduct/microduct in the micro-trench from a reel device are conductedusing the micro-trencher using a multifunctional reel carrier, spoilmaterial handling container device comprising: a first truck or firsttrailer; the first container constructed to contain the spoil being onthe first truck or first trailer; and the at least one spoiltransporting device constructed to transfer the spoil from the microtrencher and deposit the spoil in the first container.
 21. The methodaccording to claim 18, further comprising forming the flowableconcrete-based fill in a fill device by mixing together a cement, apolymer bonding agent, a colorant, an aggregate, and water, wherein thecolorant provides the flowable concrete-based fill with a colorsubstantially matching a color of the roadway, the polymer bonding agentprovides adhesion to the existing roadway to seal the microtrenchagainst water infiltration, the flowable concrete-based fill having afinal set time of 2 hour or less, and the flowable concrete-based fillis configured to flow into the microtrench from the fill device; andcontinuously filling the microtrench with the flowable concrete-basedfill material from the fill device to cover the optical fiber and/orinnerduct/microduct, fill and seal the microtrench and return theroadway substantially back to the original state with the color-matched,filled and sealed microtrench.
 22. The method according to claim 21,further comprising mixing a cement accelerator into the flowableconcrete-based fill in an amount to provide the flowable concrete-basedfill with the final set time of less than 2 hours.
 23. The methodaccording to claim 21, wherein the cement comprises calciumsulfoaluminate cement in an amount to provide the flowableconcrete-based fill with the final set time of less than 2 hours. 24.The method according to claim 21, further comprising forming theflowable concrete-based fill in real time and filling the microtrench bythe fill device in real time.
 25. The method according to claim 21,further comprising mixing a cement accelerator into the flowableconcrete-based fill in an amount to provide the flowable concrete-basedfill with the final set time of less than 1 hour.
 26. The methodaccording to claim 21, wherein the cement comprises calciumsulfoaluminate cement in an amount to provide the flowableconcrete-based fill with the final set time of less than 1 hour.
 27. Themethod according to claim 21, further comprising forming the flowableconcrete-based fill so that the flowable concreted-based fill flows fromthe fill device into the microtrench having a width of less than 2inches and a depth of 2 inches to 20 inches.
 28. The method according toclaim 20, further comprising forming the flowable concrete-based fill ina fill device by mixing together a cement, a polymer bonding agent, acolorant, an aggregate, and water, wherein the colorant provides theflowable concrete-based fill with a color substantially matching a colorof the roadway, the polymer bonding agent provides adhesion to theexisting roadway to seal the microtrench against water infiltration, theflowable concrete-based fill having a final set time of 2 hour or less,and the flowable concrete-based fill is configured to flow into themicrotrench from the fill device; and continuously filling themicrotrench with the flowable concrete-based fill material from the filldevice to cover the optical fiber and/or innerduct/microduct, fill andseal the microtrench and return the roadway substantially back to theoriginal state with the color-matched, filled and sealed microtrench.29. The method according to claim 28, further comprising mixing a cementaccelerator into the flowable concrete-based fill in an amount toprovide the flowable concrete-based fill with the final set time of lessthan 2 hours.
 30. The method according to claim 28, wherein the cementcomprises calcium sulfoaluminate cement in an amount to provide theflowable concrete-based fill with the final set time of less than 2hours.
 31. The microtrencher according to claim 1, further comprising amapping device to map at least one of a location of the microtrench, theburied utility detected by the under-roadway detection unit, and buriedoptical fiber and innerduct/microduct within the microtrench.
 32. Themicrotrencher according to claim 31, wherein the mapping devicecomprises a global positioning device.
 33. The method according to claim8, wherein the utility avoidance device comprises a mapping device, andthe method further comprises using the mapping device to map a locationof at least one of a location of the microtrench, the buried utilitydetected by the under-roadway detection unit, and a buried optical fiberand innerduct/microduct laid in the microtrench.
 34. The methodaccording to claim 33, wherein the mapping device comprises a globalpositioning device and the method further comprises mapping the globalposition of at least one of the location of the microtrench, the buriedutility detected by the under-roadway detection unit, and the buriedoptical fiber and innerduct/microduct laid in the microtrench.
 35. Themethod according to claim 33, further comprising uploadingmicrotrenching data to a server via a network, the microtrenching datacomprising a location of at least one of the location of themicrotrench, the buried utility detected by the under-roadway detectionunit, and the buried optical fiber and innerduct/microduct laid in themicrotrench.
 36. The method according to claim 34, further comprisinguploading microtrenching data to a server via a network, themicrotrenching data comprising a location of at least one of thelocation of the microtrench, the buried utility detected by theunder-roadway detection unit, and the buried optical fiber andinnerduct/microduct laid in the microtrench.